Each of his 15 novels have been filmed at least twice

Such is the charm of his novels that films and television adaptations of his novels continue to be made, 200 years after his birth.

Each of his 15 novels have been filmed at least twice. Some of the best actors in the world have played Dickensian characters that he so wonderfully crafted.

Some of Dickens's characters remain larger than life and are part of the popular imagination -- Ebenezer Scrooge, Oliver Twist, Pip, Miss Havisham, Fagin, David Copperfield, Uriah Heep, The Artful Dodger etc -- some of English Literature's most memorable figures.

The original manuscripts of many of Dickens' works are stored in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

The novelist is also commemorated on the 10 pound note issued by the Bank of England a few years ago.

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Image: An inscribed copy of Charles Dickens' 'Oliver Twist' displayed at Christie's auction house in New YorkPhotographs: Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

An iPad app for Mr Dickens

Other events being organised to celebrate the event include a readathon across 24 countries organised by the British Council.

It will begin in Australia with a reading from Dombey and Son, continue with Nicholas Nickleby in South Korea, A Christmas Carol in Kazakhstan and conclude with The Mystery of Edwin Drood in the UAE.

In India the British Council will screen a collection of seven films based on or inspired by Charles Dickens and has invited contemporary Indian writers in English to contribute pieces on what they feel Dickens would write today.

At the House of Commons, the British parliament, next door to Westminster Abbey, Jim Dowd, MP, will host a reception to launch an educational programme called 'What the Dickens?'

A Dickens newspaper and an iPad app using his work as content will also be launched, respecting the format Dickens himself used.

So folks, pick up a Dickens' classic -- what better way to wish the Great Man a Happy Birthday!

Image: A plaque marks the principal home of Charles Dickens in LondonPhotographs: Finbarr O'Reilly/Reuters